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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Hawaii, USA

Nearby Destinations

Mauna Kea is mainly experienced as a day or evening trip from other Big Island locations. Its position allows access from both major population centers.

From Hilo: The Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station (VIS) is about a 1 to 1.5-hour drive. The summit extends another 30-45 minutes past the VIS, needing a 4WD vehicle. From Kona: The Mauna Kea VIS is about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive. The summit requires an additional 30-45 minutes.

Travel Options

  • Organized Tour: This option includes the necessary 4WD transport, which many rental agreements prohibit for the unpaved summit road. Experienced guides provide valuable insights into geology, astronomy, and cultural significance. Tours often include warm clothing, food, and drinks, simplifying preparation. Logistics and safety considerations are handled, leaving you to relax.
  • Independent Travel (Self-drive): This option has a flexible schedule, letting you choose your own timing for sunrise or sunset views and stargazing. It may be more cost-effective if you already have a suitable 4WD vehicle.
  • Organized Tour: Costs more per person compared to self-driving. A fixed schedule provides less flexibility than an independent trip.
  • Independent Travel: Requires renting a specific 4WD vehicle, with verification that your rental agreement permits driving the Mauna Kea summit road. You are responsible for safety, navigation, and bringing all gear. Guided information, part of tours, is not present.

Big Island Exploration

The Big Island has many natural and cultural opportunities, contrasting with the high-altitude environment of Mauna Kea.

Natural Escapes

The Big Island has numerous natural escapes, contrasting with the high-altitude environment of Mauna Kea.

Suggested Activities

  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Drive Crater Rim Drive, explore steam vents, visit Thurston Lava Tube. Chain of Craters Road offers views of past lava flows. Consider hiking Kīlauea Iki trail for solidified lava lake views. Check park website for current conditions.
  • Hamakua Coast Waterfalls: A scenic day trip from Hilo. Visit Akaka Falls State Park for Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. Rainbow Falls and Peʻepeʻe Falls are near Hilo. The Hamakua Coast drive has ocean views.
  • Kona Coffee Belt: Half-day to full-day trip. Visit coffee farms to learn about Kona coffee and enjoy tastings. Add a visit to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park and snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay.

Cultural Excursions

Beyond Mauna Kea, the Big Island has compelling cultural excursions for insight into Hawaiian heritage.

Cultural Highlights

  • Waipiʻo Valley: Known as the "Valley of Kings." Drive to the lookout for panoramic views. For a experience, a guided tour into the valley is an option. Personal vehicle access to the valley floor requires a 4WD due to the steep road.
  • Kona Historical Sites: Explore Kailua-Kona's past. Visit Huliheʻe Palace, former vacation home of Hawaiian royalty, and Mokuaikaua Church, the first Christian church. Head south to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, the ancient City of Refuge.
  • Approach these cultural sites with reverence for their significance.

Multi-Day Extensions

Next Destinations

  • Maui: Known for Haleakalā volcano, the Road to Hana, and beaches. Maui mixes natural beauty, adventure, and resort amenities.
  • Kauai: The "Garden Isle" is famous for its Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and verdant scenery. Kauai is good for outdoor activities and serene natural beauty.
  • Oahu: Home to Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, and urban attractions. Oahu has city life, historical sites, surfing, and dining.
  • Inter-island flights are the main mode of transport between Hawaiian islands. Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines operate frequent flights. Booking flights in advance, especially during peak travel times, secures better prices.

Suggested Routes

  • Combine the Big Island with another island. For example, spend a week on the Big Island exploring its nature, volcanoes, and Mauna Kea, then fly to Maui for a second week for beaches, Haleakalā Crater, and the Road to Hana.
  • Alternatively, combine the Big Island with Oahu for natural wonders and urban historical sites, including Pearl Harbor. These combinations allow for a comprehensive Hawaii experience.
  • For a comprehensive experience, consider booking tours or activities with GetYourGuide to complement your itinerary.
  • See available day trips and excursions on GetYourGuide's Day Trips section.

Typical Trip Time

  • Minimum time for a Mauna Kea summit or stargazing trip from Hilo or Kona:6-8 hours
  • This includes:Driving time
  • This includes:Acclimatization at the VIS
  • This includes:Summit visit & stargazing program
  • It is recommended to factor in:Extra time for traffic
  • It is recommended to factor in:Weather checks
  • It is recommended to factor in:Unexpected stops
  • These natural escapes highlight:Big Island's geological diversity

Note:

These natural escapes showcase the Big Island's incredible geological diversity, from active volcanoes to lush valleys and pristine coastlines, with varied experiences for every traveler.

Island Features

The Big Island has unique natural and cultural features that stand out.

Lush Valleys

Discover scenic waterfalls and rainforests along the Hamakua Coast.

Active Volcanoes

Explore the dynamic landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Pristine Coastlines

Relax on beautiful beaches or snorkel in clear ocean waters.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

An excellent full-day trip for geological and natural discovery.

Park Highlights

  • Drive the scenic Crater Rim Drive.
  • Explore steam vents and visit the Thurston Lava Tube.
  • Chain of Craters Road offers views of past lava flows and dramatic coastal cliffs.

Hamakua Coast Waterfalls

A picturesque day trip from Hilo with lush rainforest scenery.

Waterfall Wonders

  • Visit Akaka Falls State Park to see the towering Akaka Falls.
  • Explore Kahuna Falls amidst lush rainforest.
  • Rainbow Falls and Peʻepeʻe Falls are easily accessible near Hilo.

Other Island Highlights

Kona Coffee Belt Experience:Half to full-day trip
Learn about:Growing and processing Kona coffee
Includes:Tastings at various farms
Combine with:Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Option for:Snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay
Explore:Ancient Hawaiian history and marine life

Eco Tip:

  • These natural escapes showcase the Big Island's incredible geological diversity.
  • Experience active volcanoes, lush valleys, and pristine coastlines.
  • The island provides varied experiences for every traveler.
  • Always check current conditions and park websites before visiting.
  • Approach natural and cultural sites with respect.

Cultural Immersion

Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Big Island through its historical sites and practices.

Waipiʻo Valley

Known as the "Valley of Kings," a sacred and historically important location.

Valley Access

  • Drive to the lookout point for stunning panoramic views into the valley.
  • For a experience, a guided tour into the valley itself is an option.
  • Personal vehicle access to the valley floor is typically restricted to 4WD vehicles due to an extremely steep road.

Kona Historical Sites

Spend a day exploring Kailua-Kona's rich historical past.

Historical Journey

  • Visit Huliheʻe Palace, a former vacation home of Hawaiian royalty.
  • Explore Mokuaikaua Church, the first Christian church in Hawaii.
  • Head south to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, the ancient City of Refuge.

Inter-Island Travel

For those with more time, consider multi-day extensions to explore beyond the Big Island.

Connecting Islands

  • Inter-island flights are the main mode of transport between Hawaiian islands.
  • Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines operate frequent flights, making island hopping simple.
  • Book these flights in advance, especially during peak travel periods, to secure better prices.

Suggested Island Combinations

Combine the Big Island with another island for a comprehensive Hawaii experience.

Extended Adventures

  • Spend a week on the Big Island exploring its nature, volcanoes, and Mauna Kea.
  • Fly to Maui for a second week dedicated to beaches, the Haleakalā Crater, and the scenic Road to Hana.
  • Alternatively, combine the Big Island with Oahu for a mix of natural wonders and urban historical sites, including Pearl Harbor.

Unique Big Island Features

The Big Island has an unique character, blending natural wonders with urban and historical elements.

Natural Wonders

Explore active volcanoes, lush valleys, and stunning coastlines.

Urban Exploration

Discover city life, diverse dining, and surfing opportunities on Oahu.

Historical Sites

Visit places like Pearl Harbor for a historical experience.

Explore Further:

These cultural excursions complement the natural beauty of the Big Island, creating a complete understanding of its people, traditions, and historical landscape.

Island Snapshots

Discover some features across the Hawaiian Islands, including urban centers, natural marvels, and unique cultural experiences.

Island Features

O

Oahu

Urban attractions including Honolulu and Waikiki Beach. It mixes city life, historical sites, surfing, and diverse dining.

M

Maui

Known for Haleakalā volcano, the scenic Road to Hana, and beautiful beaches. Maui has natural beauty, adventure, and resort amenities.

K

Kauai

The "Garden Isle" is famous for its Na Pali Coast, the vast Waimea Canyon, and lush, verdant scenery. Kauai is good for outdoor activities.

Travel Logistics

  • Inter-island flights are the main transport mode.
  • Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines operate frequent flights.
  • Booking flights in advance is recommended for better prices.
  • This is especially true during peak travel times.
  • These combinations create a comprehensive Hawaii experience.
  • Each island has its unique character.

Airport Services

  • Consider Priority Pass for independent airport lounge access.
  • Priority Pass is available around the world.
  • A 10% commission is available, with a 30-day cookie.
  • For flight issues, Compensair assists with compensation.
  • This service is for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.
  • A fixed commission of €5-12 is available, with a 30-day cookie.

Cultural Significance

Mauna Kea

Mauna Kea is a sacred mountain for Native Hawaiians. Treat it with reverence.

Cultural Sites

These sites journey through Hawaii's royal and spiritual history.

Respect

Approach all sites with reverence for their cultural meaning.

Consider This:

These cultural excursions complement the natural beauty of the Big Island, creating a complete understanding of its people, traditions, and historical landscape.
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